Legislative Activity

The Disaster Reforestation Act modifies the rules for deducting casualty losses of uncut timber due to fire, storm, theft, or other casualties. Taxpayers can deduct losses based on the difference between the timber's appraised value before the loss and its salvage value, with specific appraisal and reforestation requirements. The definition of "other casualties" includes losses from wood-destroying insects or invasive species, or severe drought. It applies to timber held for sale in a trade or business that is not a passive activity for losses sustained in taxable years beginning after the enactment of this Act.

The TCJA Permanency Act makes permanent several tax provisions that were enacted as part of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) and were set to expire. These provisions include modifications to individual income tax rates and brackets, the standard deduction, the child tax credit, and the estate and gift tax exemption. The act also increases the exemption for the Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) and adjusts the phase-out thresholds. Additionally, it includes various changes affecting deductions, credits, and exclusions for individuals, families, businesses, and estates.

The "No Congressional Funds for Sanctuary Cities Act" prohibits federal funds from being used for congressional earmarks that benefit sanctuary jurisdictions, defined as those with laws or practices that prevent cooperation with federal immigration enforcement, with exceptions for victims and witnesses of crimes. This act will be effective starting in fiscal year 2026.

The "Equal Representation Act" mandates the inclusion of a citizenship status question on the 2030 census and all future censuses. It requires the Secretary to report the number of citizens and non-citizens in each state. It also changes the way congressional districts are calculated by excluding non-citizens from the population count used for apportionment.

The FIND Act prohibits federal agencies from contracting with entities that discriminate against the firearm and ammunition industry. It requires federal contractors to certify they do not discriminate against firearm entities and prohibits them from awarding subcontracts to entities that do not provide a similar certification. Violations of these clauses will result in contract termination. The act defines "discriminate" as making judgments or refusing/limiting services based on biased criteria, rather than case-by-case evaluations, empirical data, financial risk, or legal non-compliance.

The "Deport Alien Gang Members Act" amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to make alien gang members inadmissible and deportable, defining "criminal gang" as groups of 5 or more involved in criminal activities. It mandates detention for gang-affiliated aliens, makes them ineligible for asylum or temporary protected status, and requires an annual report to Congress. The Act also specifies that gang members are not eligible for parole or other relief under immigration laws, with the amendments being effective immediately upon enactment.

The "Family and Small Business Taxpayer Protection Act" rescinds any unspent funds that were previously allocated to the IRS. These funds were intended for specific activities outlined in section 10301 of Public Law 117-169. The rescission is effective from the date of the enactment of this act.